Discover the evolution of U.S. cents through history! Post-1982 cents are crafted from copper-plated zinc, featuring a core of 99.2% zinc and 0.8% copper, with pure copper plating. These modern cents are 20% lighter compared to their copper alloy counterparts. Delve into the historical transition with the Act of February 21st, 1857, which introduced the new copper-nickel small cent, prompting the exchange of Spanish coins, Mexican coins, old copper cents, and half cents for U.S. silver coins and the new cents. Explore the fascinating varieties of 1857 and 1858, including two significant variations in the 1858 edition: Large Letter and Small Letter designs. Watch for minor variations in reverse designs depicting corn, wheat, cotton, and tobacco. Uncover unique varieties like the 1858 “8 Over 7,” identifiable by a small dot above the first 8, resulting from the die being ground down until the 7 was no longer visible. Dive into our collection and explore a diverse selection of small cents available in convenient $1 face-value rolls!
